Police Commission warns officers of strict disciplinary action, gives reasons
Police Commission warns officers of strict disciplinary action, gives reasons
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired DIG Hashimu Argungu, has expressed grave concern over the escalating human rights violations in Nigeria’s South East.
He also issued a stern warning that the Commission will no longer tolerate acts of indiscipline from serving police officers.
In a decisive statement, Argungu emphasised that the PSC would no longer hesitate to activate its disciplinary processes, leading to the dismissal of officers who fail to adhere to established conduct.
Speaking at the ongoing South East Stakeholders Summit on Peace and Security, alongside a Public Hearing on Human Rights Violations in the region, Argungu’s message was delivered by the Commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani. The summit is currently taking place in Enugu.
Argungu highlighted that the PSC is fully aware of the troubling trend of police officers in the South East engaging in activities beyond their mandated duties, particularly in civil matters such as land disputes, debt collection, and marital issues.
Despite repeated warnings from the Commission, some officers have continued to involve themselves in these issues, driven by the lure of financial gain.
“The allure of filthy money has become a dangerous temptation for some of our officers, who persist in violating the Commission’s directive to steer clear of civil matters,” Argungu said, condemning the egregious misconduct.
He further stressed that the Commission would take swift and decisive action against any officer found guilty of such violations.
The PSC Chairman also voiced his concern over the rising insecurity in the South East, describing the region as an increasingly perilous hotbed of unrest and human rights abuses.
He pointed to the growing influence of criminal gangs masquerading as freedom fighters, responsible for senseless attacks on innocent citizens.
“We are deeply troubled by the misuse of power by security personnel who are entrusted with safeguarding this region,” Argungu said.
He also referenced the widespread corruption among security officers operating in the South East, with reports of extortion and roadblocks turned into toll gates where drivers are forced to pay bribes under duress.
Argungu called for an urgent overhaul to rid the region of the rogue police officers who continue to undermine security and contribute to the lawlessness.
He expressed his support for Enugu Governor Peter Mbah’s transformative governance, particularly in addressing the region’s security challenges, and reassured him of the PSC’s commitment to working collaboratively to combat crime and restore peace.
“We stand with you in the fight to liberate the South East from banditry, criminality, and all emerging security threats,” Argungu concluded.
